What inspired you to use Forbeyon?

I love the variety of cover options, from bright and bold to timeless neutrals. There is truly something for every client’s taste!

What is the first thing that comes into your mind when you think of Forbeyon?

I love that you are a Texas based business, just like us!

Share with us your favorite Forbeyon album and why. What materials/ options do you choose?

My favorite album is the Pearl album that we recently ordered. The cover is laser engraved with the vector file given to me from the couple’s invitation designer. It perfectly matches their invitation suite and wedding style, and I love how classy the cover looks! A close second would be the Orange Wave album that perfectly matches the sunset photo of the couple on the square cameo. For the interior options, I always choose flushmount panoramic and luster paper.

What advice would you give to the first time buyers of Forbeyon albums?

The quality of the Forbeyon albums has grown with me over the years. I’ve been using Forbeyon albums for 8 years now, and I think it is by far the longest I’ve used any company related to my photography business. I also love the fact that I can get someone on the phone easily when I need questions answered! If you’re not sure about the album quality, try ordering a studio sample first before you offer to clients.

Any suggestions for Forbeyon?

It would be helpful to send out new swatches to long term clients when they become available, as well as alerting us of materials being removed.

What inspired you to be a photographer?

Originally I began working as a cinematographer and video editor, but got tired of the constant revisions and living in front of my computer screen. The ability to be my own boss and to have full creative control of my product and client experience, plus being out in the world meeting new people every week fit my personality a lot better.

How long have you been a photographer?

15 years

Are you formally taught or self taught?

A little bit of both! My degree is actually in Film & Video production, so while it is a similar skill sets, I’ve had to take some classes and workshops here and there to hone my skills.

How do you define your style?

Fun, colorful, stylish and real. We are photojournalists at heart that love creative portraits!

What would we find in your camera bag for a typical shoot?

I am currently shooting with a Nikon D4 and a Sony A7iii. I’m primarily a 35mm/85mm shooter, but lately I’ve been loving my 70-200mm for the flattering compression and bokeh! Also my 60mm macro for ring shots and details + 4 flashes with a MagMod grid option, because I love to bring out the colors of any scene or ballroom!

Your favorite lens?

That’s so hard! The 35mm is my favorite documentary lens, and the 85mm is my favorite portrait lens.

Share with us your favorite image and why.

It’s probably the one of the bride stage diving, and being held up by all the guests arms. I love the look on her face, and it’s just a fun and adventurous moment that you don’t see that often. I remember running in slow motion from the side of the stage to try and get in front of where she would be to square up with the background and get this photo as I envisioned it in that instant. I actually won a Fearless award for a black and white version of this image!

What is your most important objective when shooting?

My goal is to always exceed client expectations, both in the quality of photography and my ability to make them feel comfortable in front of the camera.

When you are shooting—how much of it is instinctual versus planned?

I usually arrive to a location early to scout locations for my couple’s portraits and first look (if there is one), but everything else is instinctual. After doing this for so many years, I’ve learned to trust my instincts, but balance that with what I know about my client’s particular like and dislikes.

Where do you get your ideas and inspiration?

From the venue and the couples I work with. I’m also inspired to do something different for every couple I work with, especially if it’s a venue I photograph at a lot. I try not to go down the rabbit hole of envy that is called Instagram – it doesn’t do my brain or creative energy any good.

What has been the best advice given to you by another photographer?

Get a CPA and have a firm understanding of what it takes to run and market a business. Being a professional photographer is only about 10% actually taking photos.

What’s the best part of being a photographer?

The schedule flexibility can’t be beat, and comes in handy when juggling the lives of two small children!

If you weren’t a photographer what would you be?

I taught Photography to high school students for about 3 years and absolutely loved it. Unfortunately my business was too busy to keep it up!